Timing is one of the biggest challenges students face on the SHSAT, and tutors address this by teaching you to recognize which question types take longer and where you can build speed safely. Expert tutors work with you on time management strategies like skipping difficult questions strategically, using process-of-elimination efficiently, and practicing with timed sections to build stamina. They'll also help you identify whether you're rushing (and making careless mistakes) or overthinking (and running out of time), then adjust your approach accordingly.

Taking a full diagnostic practice test under timed conditions is the best way to identify your actual weak areas—it shows where you're losing points and where you're spending the most time. Tutors analyze your practice test results to spot patterns: Are you missing inference questions in reading? Struggling with algebra on the math section? Making grammar errors under pressure? Once you understand your specific challenges, tutoring becomes much more targeted and efficient, focusing on the skills and content that will have the biggest impact on your score.

Most students benefit from 8-16 weeks of preparation, meeting with a tutor 1-2 times per week, depending on your baseline score and target schools. If you're starting 3-4 months before test day, you have solid time to build skills systematically and work through multiple practice tests. Students in Brooklyn have access to many excellent schools through the SHSAT, so investing time early to understand the test format and develop strong strategies pays off—even students starting with just 6 weeks can make meaningful progress with focused tutoring.

Practice tests are absolutely essential—they're how you learn the test's rhythm, build timing skills, and identify exactly where your weak spots are. Tutors typically have you take diagnostic tests at the start, progress tests mid-way through tutoring, and full practice tests under timed conditions in the final weeks. Each practice test should be followed by a detailed review where your tutor breaks down what you missed, why you missed it, and how to avoid that mistake next time. This cycle of testing, feedback, and targeted practice is what drives real score improvement.

Test anxiety is common, and tutors help build confidence through familiarity and preparation. When you've practiced the test format repeatedly, understand the question types, and have a solid strategy for pacing, anxiety naturally decreases because you feel more in control. Tutors also teach mental strategies like breathing techniques, positive self-talk, and how to move past a difficult question without letting it derail your confidence. The more prepared and confident you feel, the better you perform—which is why personalized tutoring that focuses on YOUR specific challenges is so effective for reducing test day stress.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT preparation and understand the specific demands of Brooklyn's competitive school landscape. When you get matched with a tutor, they'll assess your current level, create a personalized study plan targeting your weak areas, and provide consistent feedback on practice tests and homework. You can start with a single session to see if the tutor's approach works for you, then build a longer-term plan as you prepare for test day.